Following the success of ULearn07, CORE Education is preparing for ULearn08 which will take place in Christchurch from 8-10 October 2008. There will also be an option of an in-depth day-long pre-conference workshop on Tuesday 7 October.

With a focus on integrating new technologies to empower learning and transform leadership, ULearn08 will provide a package of professional learning that can be effectively and directly applied in teaching and learning environments. Catering for all educators, from early childhood, primary, secondary, and tertiary education, ULearn08 is a highly relevant, inclusive and practical conference that includes a comprehensive programme of pre-conference workshops.

Renowned for attracting top quality speakers, the ULearn08 organisers, CORE Education, will ensure New Zealand teachers hear from leading practitioners from New Zealand and around the world.

An exceptional trade expo will feature all of the key players in the industry and enable educators to network and learn more from these sector providers.

ULearn08 gives delegates the much sought-after opportunity to meet and share with fellow educators from all over New Zealand and overseas. The common ground often discovered can form the basis of ongoing and rewarding collaboration to explore the issues and ideas that emerge in their professional practice.

Teachers will be able follow a theme or dip into areas of interest. There will be a great emphasis on creating a professional learning platform where delegates are active participants in their own learning.

The conference will provide teachers with a unique opportunities to:

• discover common ground through conversation and discussion with other teachers;
• improve their knowledge of and expertise in new technologies by participating in the many breakout sessions on offer;
• get ideas and strategies for integrating these technologies into the learning experience of their students
• hear about policy changes/direction from senior New Zealand Ministry of Education staff.
• be inspired by world leading thinkers in the field of education and new technologies.
• try out the latest technological wares on offer at the trade expo.

ULearn08's three key themes cover leadership, connecting and developing relationships, e-communities of practice, innovation and sustainability, learning and teaching, curriculum, assessment, vision and values, pedagogy and practice, diversity, and student perspectives. These themes will provide the essence of the two strands of Learners and Leaders that support the main goals for ULearn08.